If you are a pet parent, chances are that you have experienced a lost pet. In fact it’s quite likely, as research tells us that one in three pets will become lost at some point in their lives.

Sadly, the rate of a return home is not high for unidentifiable pets. Imagine getting lost without your wallet and not being able to tell anyone who you are!

You may have questions or concerns about microchipping, and rightly so! We love our pets and want to do what is best for them. Never fear, we are here to help you understand this important choice.

Microchipping can be boiled down to this simple explanation of the process:

Your pet has a tiny little microchip about the size of a grain of rice implanted between their shoulder blades via injection. This injection is as quick and easy as when they receive their vaccinations and does not harm them. Usually, within about 24 hours, the chip and your pet’s skin bond together so that the chip does not migrate.

You then fill out the registration information attached to your pet’s chip either online or via paper, and send it in. That information is stored by the company you decide to use and must be updated yearly in case you move or change phone numbers. A good way to think of this is your credit card. Your card can be read and linked to stored information about you. Periodically you will update your information.  That way when the card is read, the information is accurate. This is similar to how the information on your pet’s chip is stored. You can read more about it here.

You will receive information about your pet’s microchip as well as a tag that lets others know that they are chipped. While it is easy enough to find out with a reader, a tag helps if your pet is lost and wondering. Animal control or a concerned citizen will know at a glance that your pet has a home and can act accordingly.

Some avoid chipping because of cost concerns. This need not be a barrier to chipping your fur baby.

There are pet lovers out there who have made it their mission to make sure that microchipping technology is accessible to everyone. One such organization is Found Animals. Found Animals is a not for profit that allows you to register your pet 100% free. They, and others like them, offer a wonderful service to the community. If you find that you prefer the services of a paid company, always do what you feel is best.

So go online or contact your veterinarian today to get the process of chipping your pet started. You will rest easier knowing that they have a way to “tell” someone who their parent is and get reunited with you should the unthinkable happen.

photo credits:  French bulldog in the grass  (license), Kitty  (license) via photopin